Chelsea face Premier League leaders Liverpool at Stamford Bridge this evening (Saturday), but manager Enzo Maresca is grappling with a mounting injury crisis that threatens to derail his plans.

The Blues will be without eight key players, including central defenders Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana and Tosin Adarabioyo, while Trevoh Chalobah is suspended. As a result, 19-year-olds Josh Acheampong and Jorrel Hato could be thrust into the heart of defence.

Midfield options are also depleted, with Cole Palmer, Dario Essugo and Andrey Santos ruled out. Maresca has blamed the club’s congested schedule and limited recovery time after the Club World Cup, noting the squad had just 20 days of rest before returning to action.

Despite the setbacks, the Italian remains upbeat about Chelsea’s chances. “Liverpool are vulnerable but still dangerous,” Maresca said, acknowledging their recent dip in form while underlining their quality.

Arne Slot’s Liverpool arrive in London on the back of consecutive defeats to Crystal Palace and Galatasaray, but they remain top of the table. They will be without goalkeeper Alisson, though the attacking duo of Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo pose a serious threat to Chelsea’s weakened defence.

Recent meetings between the sides have been closely contested: Chelsea won 3–1 at home, lost 2–1 away, were edged 1–0 at Stamford Bridge, fell 4–1 at Anfield, and most recently drew 1–1 in west London.

Kick-off is at 5:30 PM, with Chelsea aiming to overcome their injury woes and pull off a result against the league leaders.